Every year when Fall comes around, we seem to notice the usual treats: cookies, pumpkin spiced lattes, muffins, cheesecakes, pies, etc. But there’s something new to add to this list, and it isn’t entirely covered in sugar. Instead, it’s made up of buns and veggies, with a cup of pumpkin puree. It’s the Pumpkin Burger! Here’s a recipe to try out for your friends and family to officially welcome in the Fall season. What you will need: 3/4 cup of cooked quinoa, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of chickpeas or cannelini beans, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 TBSP of coconut oil, 1/2 cup of diced onions, 2 cloves of garlic (minced approx 1/2 tsp), 1/4 tsp of cinnamon, 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/8 tsp of thyme, 1/8 tsp of allspice, 1/4 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and 4 fresh burger buns along with all of your favorite toppings.
Now that you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, here are the instructions on how to begin!
Step 1: Cook the quinoa according to the directions on the package in either water or your favorite broth.
Step 2: Grind your oats in either a food processor or a blender until they resemble a coarse powder.
Step 3: Combine your ground oats and cooked quinoa and set them aside.
Step 4: Drain and rinse your beans, then pulse in a food processor or a blender to lightly “whip” the beans. This will make it easier for them to form into patties. You can also use a potato masher if you have one!
Step 5: Caramelize the onions in approx ½ tablespoon of oil. It’s just like sauteing, only you’ll turn the heat up a little bit more and encourage the golden browning. Heat your skillet to medium-high with approx ½ teaspoon of oil, add chopped onions, and stir frequently.
Step 6: Add a pinch of salt to help the onions create some liquid and feel free to add a little water or an extra drizzle oil to the pan to help de-glaze the brown bits that stick.
Step 7: Next, you will want to cook your garlic in the same pan, but add it at the end (make sure the pan isn’t too dry) and saute only briefly so it doesn’t burn.
Step 8: Once your vegetables are ready, move to a large bowl with the beans , pumpkin, quinoa, and oats and add your herbs/spices to season.
Step 9: Divide the pumpkin mixture into four equal parts and form into balls.
Step 10: Cup each ball in your hands and squeeze while pressing it into a compact disc and make four patties.
Step 11: Pour a teeny bit of oil in a skillet, heat to high, and cook for a few minutes on each side until you’re left with a golden crust and a warm center. Cooking time will vary based on patty size, but should be ready in 6-8 minutes. Now that it’s ready to eat, sit back, relax, and enjoy!

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